The Lethbridge Police are warning of a grandparent scam, after an attempt to defraud a local senior was reported.
According to Constable Stephanie Law with the Economic Crimes Unit with the Lethbridge Police, they recently were informed about this scam by a member of the community.
The man claimed he required immediate assistance, because he had been in an accident and broke his nose, which explained the change in his voice.
This man then swore the elderly woman to secrecy and told her to go to the bank, withdraw $8,500, and then return home, where someone would come to her residence and pick up the money.
Fortunately, a family member interceded and brought the elderly woman to the police station, where she reported the scam before any money was lost.
Constable Law adds that the amount the scammers ask for is usually just under $10,000, so it doesn’t get flagged by the bank.
Grandparent scams, or emergency scams, involve criminals who typically target seniors by calling and pretending to be a grandchild or family member, claiming they are in trouble and need money immediately.
Constable Law explains what to do with that kind of phone call.
Constable Law adds that bail is always paid in person at a police station, courthouse, or correctional centre where a receipt of payment will be provided, and no one will ever attend someone’s house to pick up payment.
Victims of this scam are often given reasons why they need to remain quiet and not speak with anyone about the situation, and people should be wary if they are being asked to keep this call quiet.
On top of that, do not provide any personal information and do not provide them with cash or any other form of payment.
To help keep people safe from these types of scams, make sure older relatives follow a few tips, such as always verifying the legitimacy of the story.
When verifying the information the person is providing, do not use any of the phone numbers or any other contact detail provided by the caller, and do not provide money, gift cards, bitcoin, or any other form of payment to someone you do not know.
Finally, never disclose personal information over the phone to people you do not know.
If anyone believes they have been a victim of a grandparent scam, reach out to the police at 403-328-4444.
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